Weight exercises target individual parts of the body. Unlike other forms of training, you can pinpoint and sculpt individual muscle groups using free weights.
It is important to approach weight exercises with a thorough understanding and appreciation of the do’s and don’ts. Jumping in without proper guidance can quickly result in injuries.
Weight exercises and weight lifting are entirely different disciplines. Weigh exercises involve slowly building muscles to help with calorie burning, sculpting and overall health. Weight lifting is a sport. The goal is to lift the heaviest weight possible in one single lift.
One of the most important things to understand before attempting any weight exercises is proper stretching before and after your routine. You must warm the muscles up before putting any kind of strain on them. Light cardio will do the trick or alternatively, an easy set of each exercise.
Just as important is to cool those muscles down at the end of your routine. Slow, easy movements and breathing is a great way to cool down. Proper warm up and cool down will help to eliminate muscle strain, muscle damage and soreness.
Proper form while using free weights is also a key to a successful weight exercise regime. As your muscles tire it can become more difficult to maintain proper posture. Straighten your back and pull your abs in throughout the entire routine. Your abs will help stabilize your body.
One way to help maintain the perfect form is to start with small weights and gradually work your way up to a heavier class of weights, allowing your body to adjust so your form does not suffer.
Never discount proper breathing techniques. Exhale when you engage the muscle and inhale as you release the muscle. Never hold your breath! It can lead to heart attacks and blood clots as well as dizziness and light headedness.
Muscles grow and change during rest. That is why it is so important to put at least a day between working the same muscle group.
Some of the tools used for weight exercises include free weights, weight machines and your own body weight. Free weights are commonly used for biceps, triceps, chest, and back; weight machines are commonly used for calves, thighs, and shoulders; and your own body weight is commonly used for abdominals, and large leg muscle groups.
More than 34% of Americans are considered Obese today. One in Ten Americans has obesity related Type 2 diabetes. Along with a healthy diet and cardio training, weight Exercises are an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Building healthy muscles will encourage faster and smarter calorie burning which can lead to increased health, lower BMI ratings and ultimately a healthier and happier country.